Elam has been the Ravens’ best rookie, a starter since Week 2, and justifying the team’s decision to make him a first-round pick. One of the questions entering the season was the safety position, and how the Ravens would replace last year’s starters Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard. However, Elam looks like he’ll be a starter for years, and James Ihedigbo has become the leader of the secondary at the other safety spot.

The Ravens knew Elam was a big hitter when they drafted him out of the University of Florida. However, there was concern that Elam’s aggressiveness might make him a liability in pass coverage. So far, Elam has been solid in coverage and a sure tackler.

“He’s a physical player,” said Ravens defensive coordinator Dean Pees. “He’s just developing in all areas. And in some ways, he’s still got a lot to learn in all areas. The more he plays, the better he’s going to be. He loves playing football – that’s what I love about him. He enjoys the game. It means a lot to him. He studies hard and works hard in practice.”

It’s obvious that Elam’s confidence is growing every week. The Ravens will need, and expect him to make more impact plays in the second half of the season.

Morning thought: “Satisfied and coaching are not two synonymous terms.” – Ravens offensive coordinator Jim Caldwell, when asked if he was satisfied that the offense was making progress.